Principal Ecology and Biodiversity Consultant

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is excited to be working with a leading environmental consultancy to recruit a Principal Ecology & Biodiversity Consultant to support the growth and development of their Ecology and Biodiversity Team in England. This role offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced ecologist to take the next step in their career and play a key role in both project delivery and team development.

Whilst there is flexibility to shape the role around the right candidate, we are particularly interested in hearing from professionals operating at an upper senior or principal consultant level who are confident in project delivery and can contribute to team management. This includes responsibilities such as technical review, mentoring, and/or financial management.

The Role

This is a fantastic opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects across multiple sectors while collaborating closely with the Ecology Director to support the ongoing development of a knowledgeable and enthusiastic team. The current project portfolio includes:

• Small, local single-plot developments

• Environmental Impact Assessments

• Supporting major clients with biodiversity initiatives, including designing bespoke biodiversity metrics and frameworks

While the core team of ecologists is based in the West Midlands, the company operates UK-wide and offers flexibility in location. Ideally, candidates should be within a two-hour commute of Wolverhampton.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have:

• A BSc and/or MSc in Ecology or a related discipline

• Membership of a relevant professional body, such as the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM)

Essential Skills

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• A broad understanding of the planning process and the role of ecological assessments

• In-depth knowledge and field survey experience for most of the following: habitats, amphibians, bats, water vole, otter, reptiles, invasive plants, and birds

• Knowledge and experience in the application of Biodiversity Net Gain

• Understanding of protected species mitigation, licensing requirements, and non-licensed approaches

• Experience in financial management at either project or team level (additional company-specific training will be provided)

• Experience in assessing potential impacts on protected sites, including assent/consent and Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA)

• Familiarity with Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) processes and contributions to EIA chapters

Desirable Skills

While not essential, the following would be advantageous:

• Holding a protected species licence (e.g., great crested newt, bats, badger, water vole)

• Experience in line management

• Experience in stakeholder consultation (e.g., Natural England, Environment Agency, local planning authorities)

• A creative and problem-solving approach to ecological solutions

What’s on Offer?

The salary for this role will be competitive and commensurate with experience. In addition, the company offers a range of benefits, including:

• Professional body subscription (typically CIEEM)

• Tailored training (both internal and external)

• 33 days annual leave (including public holidays) with the option to buy and sell leave

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Generous employee referral scheme

• Volunteering Day to support a worthy cause

• Flexible parental leave options

• Cycle to work and electric vehicle schemes

This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking organisation committed to making a positive impact on biodiversity and the environment. If you are ready to take on a new challenge and contribute to a thriving Ecology & Biodiversity Team, we would love to hear from you!

To apply or learn more, please get in touch with Ocean to Earth Recruitment today.